Burberry made a statement at London Fashion Week with its menswear collection titled “Escapes,” marking Chief Creative Officer Riccardo Tisci’s first menswear-focused collection for the brand. The show featured a unique set design, with multiple levels of pale plywood and corrugated beige curtains, reflecting Tisci’s preferred aesthetic. As a prelude to the show, Tisci sent out modernist safari chairs to VIPs and editors, adding an element of anticipation with the show coordinates printed on them. The show itself took place at Burberry’s London headquarters at Horseferry House in Westminster, without a live audience.
Promoting the collection on social media, Tisci shared videos depicting men racing through parks and countryside, culminating in the heart of London. The camera shots during the show rotated around the models’ heads, while the invitation showcased the word “Wilderness” sewn onto a sweatshirt. The collection commenced with Burberry’s iconic trench coat, but with a twist – they were cut off at the back, resembling ribbed jerkins. The trenches appeared in classic beige or muddy plaids, some lacking lapels and others featuring pleated finishes. Tisci also incorporated knee-length skirts in metallic copper or multi-pleated styles, paired with PVC leggings. The show’s set mirrored the diverse landscape of Burberry’s flagship store on Regent Street.
For colder weather, Tisci presented Yeti rapper coats made of battleship-gray faux fur and duffle coats adorned with patch Velcro straps, accented by silk scarf belts. Accessories included beanies featuring deer motifs and boots sculpted to resemble hooves, adding to the overall wilderness theme. The collection further featured faux-fur V-neck cricket sweaters, double ‘B’-logo Varsity baseball jackets, and padded patchwork work shirts for more casual occasions.
Despite the challenges faced by the fashion industry during the pandemic, Burberry managed to perform relatively well, with a mere 4% drop in revenue. Clearly, Tisci’s creative vision for Burberry is striking a chord with customers, as the brand continues to thrive. The “Wilderness” and “Escapes” collection presented by Tisci demonstrates that Burberry remains far from being lost in the commercial landscape.
Useful links:
1. Burberry Official Website
2. London Fashion Week Official Website
